Accident Overview
A student pilot flying low over the Cumberland River reported that his aircraft struck a power line. Following the collision, he lost control of the airplane, which subsequently crashed into the river. The passenger on board, who was not a pilot, suffered fatal injuries.
Pilot Information
The pilot had been issued his student pilot certificate 12 days before the accident. At that time, he reported a total flight time of 385 hours.
Investigation Findings
An inspection of the wreckage revealed no evidence of mechanical failure or malfunction. The power line that was severed by the airplane was erected about 90 feet above the surface of the river.